IP Applications
Only trademarks and designs that have been applied for and registered are protected. They can be defended, sold, licensed, and enforced through injunctions and claims for damages. In Germany, trademark registration takes between one and six weeks—in the EU, usually one to four months—but with us, it often takes less time.
Once registered, trademark protection is valid for 10 years in most countries. However, it can be renewed for additional 10-year periods as often as desired. Thus, the trademark is the strongest and longest-lasting intellectual property right (compared to designs, patents, and utility models)—provided you use your trademark and renew it on time.